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New Apple TV coming out in first half 2014?

Apple could be coming out with a refreshed and beefed-up Apple TV set-top box within the first half of 2014, an Apple enthusiast site reported.

The 9to5mac.com site cited sources who said there could be an app and game store thrown in for the new Apple TV, which it added is "well into testing."

"We are led to believe that the new device, which is said to be a set-top box rather than a full-fledged TV set, will likely be introduced in the first half of 2014. We understand that the product will include a revamped operating system that will be based on iOS. Of course, release timeframes with these type of products can quickly change due to the content partners that are involved in such products,"it said.

It added its sources earlier indicated Apple is experimenting with new input methods for TV-related products such as motion controls, but it is unclear if that will be included in the new Apple TV.

However, it said the new Apple TV could include new types of content, and that Apple may be considering an App Store or a “Game Store” for the new device.

"Apple will likely promote this new store with the new hardware, but the company has definitely considered allowing users of the current-generation Apple TV to update to the new software redesign," it said.

The Verge said the current Apple TV lets users play some iOS games on the TV via AirPlay, "but a wider focus on gaming could encroach on the territory of console makers like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo." — ELR, GMA News